Trichy airport operations shift to new terminal

Trichy Airport domestic and international aircraft operations will move to the new integrated terminal on Tuesday. The new terminal, which spans 75,000 square metres and was built for 1,112 crore with two levels for arrivals and departures, can accommodate 44.5 lakh passengers annually.

The new terminal will be officially commissioned on Tuesday at 6 a.m., according to P Subramani, director of Trichy Airport. The first group of passengers to arrive at the new terminal will be from an Indigo flight that is arriving at Trichy Airport at 6.40 am from Singapore. The first group of people to leave the integrated terminal will be those on an aircraft that is scheduled to depart for Bengaluru at 7:40 a.m.

All of the work needed to open the new terminal’s operations to passengers has been finished in full.

Subramani sald:

The new terminal features five baggage carousels and 104 immigration counters. 26 of the 60 arrival counters will be utilised for passengers from within the country, and 34 for those from outside. There are forty-four counters for departure. In addition, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) intends to set up 12 self-check-in kiosks. About twenty counters will be put into service right away.

There are just two x-ray baggage inspection systems—one for local operations and one for international travel—at the former terminal. There will be 15 x-ray baggage inspection systems at the new terminal, four of which will be reserved for travellers travelling within the country. The director also stated that there is no possibility of congestion inside the new terminal.

Five of the terminal’s ten aerobridges are operational right now. According to the officials, contactless scanning infrastructure may be introduced in the next phase.

VIPs have exclusive access that allows them to avoid using the passenger general spaces. Battery-powered vehicles can be recharged in the parking area. The new terminal has received a Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) of four stars out of five for environmental friendliness. Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke ground on the new terminal’s construction in February 2019 and officially opened it on January 2. AAI also mentioned that they are developing a strategy to use the former terminal building for different uses.

Designed for Efficiency and Comfort

The new terminal is a testament to meticulous planning and modern design. Spread across two levels – one for arrivals and another for departures – it offers a seamless and efficient passenger journey. Here’s a glimpse into what passengers can expect:

• Increased Capacity: The new terminal boasts a significant boost in passenger handling capacity, accommodating up to 4.5 million passengers annually. This caters to the growing demand for air travel in the region and positions Trichy Airport to play a more prominent role in the national aviation network.

• Enhanced Immigration and Baggage Handling: With 104 immigration counters, the new terminal ensures faster processing times for arriving passengers. For a smoother arrival experience, 60 counters are dedicated to immigration, with a dedicated split of 26 for domestic and 34 for international passengers. Furthermore, five baggage carousels ensure efficient luggage claim.

• Improved Check-in Options: The new terminal prioritizes passenger convenience by offering a mix of traditional check-in counters and self-check-in kiosks. Plans are underway to introduce 12 self-check-in kiosks, with around 20 operational from the start. This empowers passengers to manage their check-in process efficiently, reducing queues and saving valuable time.

A Touch of Tradition

The new terminal goes beyond functionality, incorporating elements that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. The design incorporates local art and architecture, subtly weaving a sense of place into the passenger experience. This thoughtful touch creates a welcoming ambience for both domestic and international travellers.

A Catalyst for Growth

The inauguration of the new terminal is more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a catalyst for growth. The improved facilities and increased capacity are expected to attract more airlines and potentially new routes, fostering better connectivity for the region. This, in turn, can boost tourism, trade, and overall economic development in Trichy and surrounding areas.

A Smooth Transition

The successful transition to the new terminal is a testament to the meticulous planning and collaborative efforts of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and above all the various stakeholders involved. Extensive measures were taken to ensure a smooth handover, minimizing disruptions for passengers.

Looking Ahead

The new integrated terminal marks a significant milestone for Trichy Airport. It positions the airport to cater to the growing aviation needs of the region, offering passengers a world-class travel experience. With its focus on efficiency, comfort, and a touch of local flair, the new terminal is poised to propel Trichy further on its journey as a major aviation hub in South India.

FAQs

When did Trichy Airport switch to the new terminal?

All flight operations shifted to the new integrated terminal on June 11th, 2024.

What happened to the old terminal?

The old terminal is now being used as an international cargo complex.

Where is the new terminal located?

The new terminal is located at the same location as the previous terminals at Trichy International Airport.

What are the benefits of the new terminal?

The new terminal offers increased capacity, faster immigration processing, improved baggage handling, and also a wider range of check-in options (including self-check-in kiosks).

How many immigration counters are there in the new terminal?

There are 104 immigration counters, with dedicated sections for domestic and international arrivals.

Are there any shops or restaurants in the new terminal?

Yes, the new terminal has a variety of retail stores and restaurants available.

Will my flight depart from the new terminal?

Yes, all arriving and departing flights are now operating from the new terminal.